We have rolling admission, which means we accept applications until all spots are filled. The program is not usually filled until late spring/early summer, however we recommend applying as soon as you can as its gets more competitive as fewer seats are available.

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL BREAKDOWN OF THE STUDENT BODY?

It varies year to year, but typically it’s half undergraduate and half postgraduate students.

IS THERE FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?

If you are an American citizen or permanent resident , you are eligible for need-based scholarships (to apply, fill out the scholarship application in applyyourself) and if you wish federal aid ( fill out the FAFSA) . Please note, if you are processing your aid via your home institution, you can apply for third party billing and Columbia can sign a consortium agreement.

If you are not an American citizen financial aid is not available through Columbia University.

CAN I WORK DURING THE PROGRAM?

Yes, there are hourly-wage jobs available on campus, but we don’t recommend working part-time outside of the university because the program is very demanding and you will not have much spare time. The on-campus jobs that are available and instructions on how to apply will be covered during orientation.

CAN I ONLY APPLY TO THE SPRING SEMESTER IN PARIS?

There are rare occasions when students are able to only participate in the spring semester, this happens when they already have substantial design experience. If you are interested in applying only for the spring, please fill out the same application and indicate that you’d like to be considered for spring only.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURE OF THE PROGRAM, BOTH ACADEMICALLY AND OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM?

Academically, the culture of the program is very similar to graduate school with an emphasis placed on studio culture. Students are expected to work in studio, rather than at home, in order to benefit from their peers. Also, weekly assignments will take students into various neighborhoods in New York. In Paris more emphasis is placed on touring the architecture of the city itself and there is more time spent outside of studio.

IS IT OK TO APPLY WITH NO BACKGROUND IN ARCHITECTURE?

Yes, most people do not have a background. Even if you do have a background, you will be exposed to a different way of working and will be challenged to work outside of your previous experience.

Columbia University
Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation

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